Not your typical obituary-- for a not so typical brother
by Leanna Wilson (Eric's sister)

What can I say--- I would feel like I wasn't doing Eric justice by writing a typical obituary for him.  For those of you that had the pleasure of knowing him, you know that his personality was bigger than life.   So, instead of just writing a very vague obituary, I feel that it is important to be a little more candid and write this in a manner that I feel he would appreciate.  

Eric was born in Monongahela, PA on March 9, 1984.  He attended Charleroi High School and was in the graduating class of 2002.  He was a son, brother, grandson, nephew, cousin, and friend to many.  He also acquired many nicknames along the way: Pie, Weave, Uncle Weave, Weavis, Big E, to name a few.  Eric passed away unexpectedly this Saturday morning July 22, 2017 peacefully, at home in his sleep.  Even after recreating the timeline leading up to his passing over and over, we still don’t have any answers except that he was complaining of some chest pain earlier that day. What I do know for sure is that Eric was brave-brave in a very untraditional sense.  As those of you who were closest to him know, he struggled with depression and had a history of drug addiction.  Yet, Eric woke up every morning and fought his battle by bringing joy to others with his stories, his infectious smile and his laugh. To me, that is bravery.  

However, Eric's struggles did not define him.  Eric was truly one of a kind.  He lived simply.  I learned so much from him and believe that others learned from him as well.  Eric had a very different outlook on life. He helped others to understand the many issues that carry so much stigma--that everyone is battling something--so to love more and judge less.   He was selfless, charming, generous, truly loved so deeply and had one of the biggest hearts that I know.  He loved hunting, fishing, his family and friends, and he was a Christian.  The tattoo on his arm brings me, and hopefully everyone that knew him, comfort:    

For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have eternal life.  John 3:16

We rest in knowing that he is finally Home in the arms of the Lord. Rest in peace my sweet brother, you will be missed by many, and never forgotten.  Life is eternal and we will see you in Heaven.  

Eric is survived by his loving parents; mother, Eileen Pipik, stepfather, Dave Pipik, father, David Weaver and fiancé Cheryl Matyas; sister, Leanna and Cameron Wilson; brother, Scott Weaver and Carli Feretti- Weaver; step brothers, Dave and Aaron Pipik; maternal grandparents, Dolores and Edward Rodebaugh; paternal Grandfather, Clyde Weaver, and many aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends.   He was predeceased by paternal grandmother, Helen Weaver; and uncle, Kenneth Weaver.

Friends will be received from 2 to 8 p.m., the time of services, on Wednesday, July 26 in the CARL J. SPALLINO FUNERAL HOME, 819 Fallowfield Ave., Charleroi, Joseph A. Lopez, funeral director, www.spallinofuneralhome.com.  Helping pick others up when they are down was a big part of Eric's heart.  Many of you have known Eric to give the last dollar in his pocket and meal off of his plate for others in need. Therefore, in lieu of flowers, Eric would have wanted any donations in his memory to be made to any charitable cause that would help someone who may be in need.  

I love you deeply.  Until I see you again sweet brother....
Love always,
Leanna